A grant awarded to the Southeast Kansas Library System (SEKLS) is expanding access to advanced technology across the region, including a laser engraving machine currently available at the Iola Public Library.
The funding comes through the Digital Opportunities to Connect Kansans (DOCK) program, a statewide initiative aimed at improving digital literacy and skills training, particularly in economically distressed areas.
The program is funded by nearly $5 million in Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds under the American Rescue Plan Act.
SEKLS was one of 13 recipients of the DOCK 2.0 grants awarded through the Kansas Office of Broadband Development. The funding will support the development of mobile maker spaces and digital literacy training across the region’s libraries.
With total program funding of $1.9 million, individual grants can reach up to $250,000.
SEKLS Technology Consultant Darrin Daugherty applied for the grant to expand access to emerging technologies while also providing trained support staff to guide patrons and library employees.
“Our grant award was $225,000,” Daugherty said.
WITH THE funding, SEKLS purchased a range of equipment. The program will rotate equipment such as laser engravers, 3D printers, Cricut machines, virtual reality headsets, drones, robots and interactive projectors among libraries within sub-regions of one to three counties.
Rather than keeping the equipment in one location, the system distributes it among its 55 public libraries, with about two dozen libraries hosting items at any given time.
The laser engraver currently in Iola is expected to remain for about two months before moving to another location.
Other devices, such as 3D printers, typically rotate every three to four months. This system allows communities to experience a variety of technologies over time while keeping engagement high.
“The newness factor is important,” Daugherty explained. “We can rotate a new piece of equipment there, and that creates excitement in the community. Then, in three or four months, maybe a piece of equipment they really liked comes back and the community will get excited again.”
It also helps smaller libraries access equipment they otherwise could not afford.
The technology is intended for public use and library staff are currently undergoing training before full access is rolled out.
“There might be a one-time small charge that covers some of the wear and tear on the equipment,” Daugherty said. The engravers can be used on a variety of materials.
IN ADDITION to equipment, the grant funded the hiring of 12 digital navigators — part-time contracted staff who provide training and support for both library employees and the public. These navigators are central to helping communities effectively use the new technology.
